"We're trained to survive.": Veterans' experiences seeking food assistance
Research Report:
Research SummaryAPA Citation:
Kamdar, N., Haltom, T., Epshteyn, G., Wohlford, C., Smith, J., Celardo, C., & True, G. (2024). “We’re trained to survive.”: Veterans’ experiences seeking food assistance. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 35(1), 264284. https://muse.jhu.edu/article/919818
Abstract Created by REACH:
For this qualitative study, 30 Veterans were interviewed about food insecurity and the process of seeking food assistance. Journey maps, constructed to organize and explore participants’ experiences, revealed 4 phases of navigating food insecurity: identifying contributing circumstances, recognizing food insecurity, seeking help, and obtaining assistance. Ultimately, most participants still faced food insecurity. Opportunities to address common challenges, such as improving awareness of available food assistance programs (e.g., SNAP) and providing application guidance, were identified to better meet Veterans’ needs.
Focus:
Mental health
Veterans
Other
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Subject Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Methodology:
Qualitative Study
Authors:
Kamdar, Nipa, Haltom, Trenton, Epshteyn, Gabriella, Wohlford, Chasity, Smith, John, Celardo, Caitlin, True, Gala
Abstract:
Purpose. Food insecurity threatens veterans' health, yet little is known about their experiences seeking food assistance. Thus, we studied veterans' experiences as they navigated from food insecurity to food assistance. Methods. We built a journey map using thematic analysis of interviews with 30 veterans experiencing food insecurity. Findings. The map focuses on: (1) identifying contributing circumstances, (2) recognizing food insecurity, (3) finding help, and (4) obtaining assistance. Contributing circumstances included unemployment/under-employment, mental health challenges, and interpersonal violence. Veterans did not recall being screened for food insecurity. Military training also inhibited some veterans from recognizing their own food insecurity. Locating and accessing food assistance was a struggle. While many veterans applied for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, few qualified. Food pantries were a last resort. Conclusions. Opportunities to help veterans include (1) addressing contributing circumstances, (2) improving identification, (3) sharing knowledge of resources, and (4) reexamining sufficiency of food assistance programs.
Publication Type:
Article
REACH Publication
Keywords:
food insecurity, unemployment, food assistance programs
REACH Publication Type:
Research Summary
REACH Newsletter: